A Charming getaway with Family- Charleston, SC

Charleston, South Carolina, is a place that transports you back in time with its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored homes, and historical landmarks. Our family getaway to Charleston was filled with coastal flavors, scenic views, and a bit of Southern charm. Here’s how we spent three days in this historic city, with a focus on relaxation, food, and beautiful sites.

Day 1: Exploring Downtown Charleston

We kicked off our Charleston adventure with lunch at Hyman’s Seafood—a local institution with a long history and a menu featuring some of the freshest catches from the Atlantic. I tried their fish sandwich, made with the catch of the day, a flaky and delicious flounder.

Our afternoon was filled with leisurely exploring. First, we wandered through the City Market—one of Charleston’s most popular attractions. The market has been a hub for shopping and trade since the early 19th century and is filled with vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to sweetgrass baskets, a traditional Gullah art form that dates back centuries.

Next, we stopped at Byrd’s Famous Cookies for a taste of their renowned Key Lime Pie cookies, which were a hit with the whole family. I couldn’t resist and purchased a box to snack on for the rest of the trip. 

Later, we made our way to Henry’s on Market Street for a quick refreshment. Henry’s claims to be the oldest continuous restaurant in South Carolina, and the vibe there is unique, especially on their rooftop, where we enjoyed a cold beer and soaked in views of the historic district.

After a break at our Airbnb, where we relaxed on the balcony, we finished the day with an Italian feast at Mario's Italian Ristorante on King Street. We sampled a bit of everything, from creamy Tagliatelle Alfredo to a fresh Caprese salad, along with a couple of pizzas—the Vegetarian and Little Italy, which were both delicious.  

If you are looking for a place to stay, I do recommend the Airbnb we stayed in. The location was great and we had plenty of space to spread out. There were 3 bedrooms 2 with an ensuite bathroom and 1 that was also the shared hall bath. It is clearly called out in the description but I would keep in mind if you are staying an extended period or have heavy luggage it is on the 3rd floor and there is not an elevator. 

Day 2: Folly Beach & Scenic Stops

The next morning, we took a short drive to Folly Beach. It was a beautiful day for a stroll, with temperatures in the mid-70s and a gentle ocean breeze. The water was still chilly, but it was fun to watch surfers catching waves and a few brave children splashing in the cool water. Under the pier, we found a charming setup—a box of beach toys available for borrowing and painted picnic tables, giving the area a whimsical, laid-back vibe. It felt like the perfect spot to sit back and enjoy the relaxed beach atmosphere.

After a walk on the pier, we enjoyed lunch at Pier 101. With beach views and casual fare, it was an ideal place to recharge before continuing our day’s adventures.

Our next stop was Kiawah Island. Although we couldn't enter the resort without reservations, we discovered Freshfields Village nearby, a quaint shopping area where we took a few photos and window-shopped. 

Driving back toward Charleston, we crossed the impressive Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. This cable-stayed bridge is not only an engineering marvel but also offers stunning views of the Charleston Harbor and surrounding areas.

In Mount Pleasant, we stopped at Tavern & Table, a waterfront restaurant where we shared a delicious charcuterie board and ended with a warm skillet cookie topped with vanilla ice cream. A highlight was seeing dolphins swim by as we ate. One of the servers was kind enough to point them out to every table, adding a special touch to our visit.

We wrapped up the day with a scenic drive through Charleston neighborhoods, admiring the antebellum mansions, tree-lined streets, and classic Southern charm. After a rest at the Airbnb, my cousin and I headed out to Maya for some Mexican cuisine—another great choice to cap off a day filled with exploration.

Day 3: Iconic Charleston Sights

Our final morning was dedicated to some Charleston classics. We visited Rainbow Row, a series of pastel-colored homes along East Bay Street that has become one of the most photographed spots in the city. Built in the 18th century, these homes were once warehouses and were later transformed into residences with vibrant colors, symbolizing Charleston’s spirit and charm.

From Rainbow Row, we strolled to Battery Park and Waterfront Park. This picturesque promenade along the Charleston Harbor is lined with cannons and offers views of the stately antebellum homes that line the waterfront. We took in the beautiful Pineapple Fountain, a symbol of hospitality and a popular spot for photos.

After a relaxed morning, it was time to head home, feeling refreshed and filled with memories of Charleston's history, beauty, and charm. Whether you're a history buff, a beach lover, or a foodie, Charleston has something for everyone, and it was a wonderful experience to share it with family.

---

Charleston Tips:

- Bring comfortable walking shoes as you’ll want to explore on foot to fully appreciate the city’s character.

- Don’t miss the City Market and local eateries like Hyman’s Seafood for a true taste of Charleston.

- Plan for beach time at Folly Beach, and if you're lucky, you might spot some dolphins near the shore.

This trip to Charleston left us all with a sense of Southern hospitality and a longing to return. It’s a city that celebrates its past while embracing the present, making it a perfect getaway for families and friends alike. 

If you need help planning your next trip let’s chat! My services are always complementary. 

Book now.